Overview & Reviews

New or used, the BMW X3 is a great option for premium crossover shoppers who want extra doses of sport and class. As expected in this segment, the two-row X3 offers a high seating position, all-wheel-drive traction and abundant equipment. However, it goes a few steps further with sweet performance-bred engines, above-average handling and genuinely upscale interior appointments.

Now in its second generation, the current BMW X3 is a much-improved vehicle, but it also has significantly more competitors than it used to. As such, the X3 isn't the easy choice it once was. It's still a class leader, though, and many years of the first-generation X3 are solid bets as well. If you're looking for a luxury crossover that's not too large, the BMW X3 certainly belongs on your short list.

Current BMW X3
The current X3 is available in sDrive28i, xDrive28i, xDrive 28d or xDrive35i trim. In BMW-speak, "sDrive" means rear-wheel drive and "xDrive" means all-wheel drive. The 28i models are motivated by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The 28d switches to a diesel-powered four-cylinder rated at 180 hp and 280 lb-ft. The 35i boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 good for 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. Every X3 features an eight-speed automatic transmission.

While the X3 may be smaller and cheaper than the hefty X5, you won't feel short-changed inside. The same high-quality materials and construction are present, while standard luxuries on the xDrive28i include a power liftgate, eight-way power front seats, the iDrive electronics interface and a 12-speaker audio system with iPod/USB connectivity. The xDrive35i is similarly equipped but adds adaptive xenon headlights and a panoramic sunroof as standard. All X3s come standard with Driving Dynamics Control, which provides adjustable drive settings that alter the suspension, steering, transmission and throttle calibrations.

Options are largely grouped into packages. Highlights include adaptive suspension dampers, a performance-biased all-wheel-drive system, sport front seats, a head-up display, smartphone integration and a navigation system that brings a larger iDrive display screen.

In reviews, we've consistently found the current BMW X3 to be one of the most appealing luxury crossovers in its class. For those who want an ample dose of driving fun, it's very tough to beat -- especially if you're willing to pony up for the 35i's remarkably powerful and refined engine. For fuel economy fans, the xDrive28d delivers well over 30 mpg on the highway. Although the ride is rather firm, the X3 nonetheless excels at soaking up bumps, while its trademark sharp handling remains a strong suit. The competition's stiffer than ever in this segment, but the current X3 is definitely a top contender.

Used BMW X3 Models
The current, second-generation BMW X3 debuted for 2011. Styling changes from the first generation are subtle, but the X3 is a little bigger this time around, with a gentler ride, a considerably fancier interior and improved power and efficiency.

For its first two years of production, the xDrive28i featured a naturally aspirated inline-6 engine (240 hp and 221 lb-ft) that was turbine-smooth but less fuel-efficient than the turbo-4. The new base engine arrived for 2013, as did standard Driving Dynamics Control and power operation for the liftgate (both previously optional). The xDrive28d and the rear-drive sDrive28i weren't introduced until the 2015 model year, which also marked the advent of a few new features and minor exterior styling changes.

The first-generation BMW X3 was produced from 2004-'10. Originally, there were two six-cylinder models: the 184-hp 2.5i and the 225-hp 3.0i. The 2.5i was discontinued after 2005. As part of a comprehensive update for 2007, the 3.0i became known as the 3.0si (which was subsequently changed to xDrive30i for '09) and gained 35 more hp for a total of 260. A six-speed manual or six-speed automatic were available throughout.

Throughout its run, the first-gen BMW X3 provided generous seating space (even for taller adults) and a spacious cargo area. Like the current car, it was also known for being one of the most fun-to-drive SUVs on the market. However, earlier examples were criticized for their unyielding ride and austere interior appointments. Both shortcomings were addressed in the overhaul for 2007, which also brought mild styling tweaks. Accordingly, we advise admirers of this generation to focus on the 2007-'10 models.

User Reviews:

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  AWESOME - 2004 BMW X3
  By TIPKING - September 2 - 2:00 am

  Fashion Interior/Exterior Design + the "BMW" Performance. You not gonna pass this one ~

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  AWESOME - 2004 BMW X3
  By Tony Chu - September 2 - 2:00 am

  Fashion Interior/Exterior Design + the "BMW" Performance. You not gonna pass this one ~

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  BMW X3.25i Really is the Ultimate - 2004 BMW X3
  By MattSue - September 1 - 2:00 am

  The car drives like a dream. However, the cabin interior makes creaking noises at slow speeds (5-10 mph), and you can hear the wind blowing at higher speeds (40 mph +).

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  Excellent SUV - 2004 BMW X3
  By Todd R. - August 31 - 2:00 am

  This is a great value for the money. It may not be as comfortable as my old Grand Cherokee, but it drives 100 % better. Its handling is what you would expect from a BMW. I am very happy. The lease price was much less than SUVs with far less ratings.

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  5th BMW - 2017 BMW X3
  By Charles R - August 30 - 10:47 pm

  love the fact that a lease from BMW means no cost basic maintence

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  New to SAV - 2004 BMW X3
  By HarrySTL - August 28 - 2:00 am

  I just recently purchased my SAV and like it very much. It takes a little getting used to to sit up higher than my previous sedan. This vehicle is very comfortable and the instrument panel is typical BMW. The driver is the main ingredient with their design. Mileage should improve with age and more prudent driving. The exterior is awesome in its design and the Silver Grey Metallic paint is flawless. This should be a keeper for some time.

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  X3 Fun Machine - 2004 BMW X3
  By bob foonman - August 27 - 2:00 am

  great, fun to drive car. Handles great

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  This car is GRREEAT!! - 2004 BMW X3
  By newBMWowner - August 26 - 2:00 am

  I just bought my X3, and its wonderful!! I love the way it drives, it doesnt drive like an SUV at all. The car hugs the road, so you feel safe in it. Great price for such an all around beautiful car

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  Love it! - 2004 BMW X3
  By Bill Patterson - July 3 - 10:00 am

  Would never believe I would have an SUV. The little car is amazing in town and wonderfully handy after having driven sedans for business all my life. Handling is brisk, pickup almost frisky, and the features are world class. I have loved cars all my life and this one is a surprise. The size is one of the best features-small enough to be nimble, but carries people and cargo like a bigger vehicle. Glad I didnt get the smaller engine. And people notice it everywhere. My boss has a 5 series and she prefers mine in town.

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  Great Handeling - 2004 BMW X3
  By BRL - May 15 - 10:00 am

  The 2.5L engine seems to be a little under powered for the wieght of this car. The handeling is by far the best out of any SUV on the market. This car seems to be way over priced for what it is. If it wasnt for such a great lease, the car wouldnt be worth it if I had purchased it. What your buying from the X3 is BMWs great handeling engineering.